2008 Presidential Campaign Blog

Bay Buchanan Joins Romney For President

BAY BUCHANAN JOINS ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT

Boston, MA – Today, Bay Buchanan announced that she is endorsing Governor Mitt Romney for President of the United States.  Buchanan most recently headed Congressman Tom Tancredo's (R-CO) presidential campaign. 

"I am proud to be supporting Governor Romney.  Throughout this campaign, he has distinguished himself as the one Republican presidential candidate who not only speaks to the challenges confronting the American people, but can also win.  He will secure the border, strengthen the economy and ensure that America remains strong.  I believe that with Governor Romney's vision, values and experience, our nation will be stronger for future generations," said Bay Buchanan.

Welcoming Buchanan's support, Governor Romney said, "Throughout her career, Bay Buchanan has distinguished herself as a leading spokeswoman for our conservative values.  It is an honor to have her as part of our campaign to build a stronger America."

Clinton Campaign Counts Down To A New Year And A New Beginning With A New Web Video

Clinton Campaign Counts Down to a New Year and a New Beginning with a New Web Video
Video Features Clinton’s Priorities for a New Beginning in 2008

DES MOINES, IA – In the final days rolling up to the Iowa caucuses, the Clinton campaign today released a new web video outlining Senator Clinton’s priorities for the New Year. 

The new 31-second video, entitled “Countdown,” lays out her plan to create a new beginning for the New Year for all Americans by providing universal healthcare, bringing our troops home and fixing our broken economy.  America faces big challenges today and in the coming years and it’s time for a President who will truly lead our country back to greatness.  Senator Clinton has a 35 year track record of creating real change for the American people by providing healthcare for over six million children, getting body armor for our troops and boosting the economy through common sense initiatives.

Following is the script for the video:

“Countdown”

TV:31

ONSCREEN: “10!” universal healthcare

ONSCREEN: “9!” bring the troops home

ONSCREEN: “8!” alternative energy

ONSCREEN: “7!” fix the economy

ONSCREEN: “6!” end Bush’s tax breaks for the rich

ONSCREEN: “5!” make college affordable

ONSCREEN: “4!” a new GI bill of rights

ONSCREEN: “3!” fix the housing crisis

ONSCREEN: “2!” rebuild the middle class

ONSCREEN: “1!” Hillary for president (applause)

ANNCR: January 1st will be a new year, but January 3rd will be a new beginning.

ONSCREEN: come caucus January 3rd

ANNCR: I'm Hillary Clinton.  I approve this message and wish you a very happy new year.

ONSCREEN: APPROVED BY HILLARY CLINTON AND PAID FOR BY HILLARY CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT

Excerpts Of Thompson's Video Address To The People Of Iowa

Excerpts of Thompson's Video Address to the People of Iowa

McLean, VA - The Thompson campaign today released the following excerpts of Fred Thompson's 17-minute video address to the people of Iowa:

Hello, I'm Fred Thompson.

In the closing days of this historic contest here in Iowa, I wanted to take a few moments to talk quietly with you about the stakes in this election and the critical issues you will soon decide.

Because there is no frontrunner here in Iowa and because yours will be the first votes cast in this crucial election year, your decision will be one the entire country closely watches and learns from.

When you go to your local caucus on January 3rd and fill out your paper ballot - and, by the way, it's just that easy - how you vote will go a long way towards deciding who will lead us as president through dangerous years ahead.

That the years ahead will be dangerous needs no elaboration from me. Most Americans know the forces of terrorism will not rest until a mushroom cloud hangs over one of our cities. The recent tragic assassination of former Prime Minister Bhutto in Pakistan again demonstrates the terrorists' will to power and their relentless cruelty.

Along with threats to our national security, we have great domestic challenges before us - the economy, taxes, protecting our borders, and protecting the right to life. 

So, I want to talk to you now about the threats and dangers that we face as a people -- but also about the hope and opportunity I see out there...

Now there are many good men running for our party's nomination.  Each of them loves our country.   Each of them has something interesting and useful to offer.   But the fact of the matter is that the Republican Party is a conservative party.   That's the philosophy that's shaped us.  That's the philosophy that has won us elections.  And that's the philosophy we must champion if we are to win again in 2008.      

And on that score, among each of the men seeking our party's nomination, my record stands out.  I entered public life as a conservative.    I served in the Senate as a strong, consistent conservative with a 100% pro life voting record.  And I have the same philosophy today that I had back then.  What you see is what you get.  I dance to no man's tune.  And no one has ever accused me of changing my position on anything for the sake of political expediency.  That's why when someone here in Iowa said conservatives were looking for a horse to ride in 2008, I responded, "Saddle me up."   And in the battle of ideas, we can't afford a Republican leader who doesn't have a core philosophy that grounds him.   I know who I am.  I know what I believe.  And I am ready to lead... ;

And I would ask people to think one thing before they caucus: When our worst enemy is sitting across from us at the negotiating table, and they're thinking about what they can do to harm the United States of America, and what they might could get away with, who do you want sitting on our side of the table representing you, working to keep you safe? That's probably the person you ought to elect as President.   

I've been tested. And I believe our country's best days are ahead of us if we take on the responsibility of leadership.  The American people are waiting for us to step up, protect our values, our principles and our country.  Together we can do something great for America.    I welcome that challenge...

You know, when I'm asked which of the current group of Democratic candidates I prefer to run against, I always say it really doesn't matter. Because these days all those candidates, all the Democratic leaders, are one and the same.   They're all NEA, Move On.org , ACLU, Michael Moore Democrats.   They've allowed these radicals to take control of their party and dictate their course.   

So this election is important not just to enact our conservative principles.   This election is important to salvage the once-great political party from the grip of extremism and shake it back to its senses.  It's time to give not just Republicans but independents and, yes, good Democrats a chance to call a halt to the leftward lurch of the once proud party of working people.

Ron Paul Unveils New TV Ad On Immigration

Ron Paul Unveils New TV Ad on Immigration

ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA – Republican presidential candidate and Texas Congressman Ron Paul has released a new television advertisement on the topic of immigration that will run in Iowa and New Hampshire.

“This advertisement makes it clear that as president Dr. Paul would oppose amnesty, secure the border, end birthright citizenship, end welfare to illegal aliens, and restore the rule of law,” said Ron Paul 2008 campaign chairman Kent Snyder.

The following is a transcript of the 30 second advertisement:

Narrator: For generations, Lady Liberty welcomed immigrants that came here legally, followed the rules and led productive lives.  Today, illegal immigrants violate our borders and overwhelm our hospitals, schools and social services.

Ron Paul wants border security NOW:

• Physically secure the border.
• No amnesty.
• No welfare to illegal aliens.
• End birthright citizenship.
• No more student visas from terrorist nations.

Standing up for the rule of law… Ron Paul for President.

Congressman Paul: I’m Ron Paul and I approve this message.

Iowa Democratic Veteran’s Caucus Chair Bob Krause Endorses Dodd for President

DEMOCRATIC VETERANS CHAIR BOB KRAUSE JOINS OTHER PROMINENT IOWA VETS IN ENDORSING CHRIS DODD FOR PRESIDENT
Krause: “I Trust Him More Than Any Other Candidate to Lead the Nation When the Unexpected Occurs.”

DES MOINES – Calling Chris Dodd the candidate who will get results for America’s veterans and provide the leadership to restore American security and standing in the world, Iowa Democratic Veteran’s Caucus Chair Bob Krause today personally endorsed Dodd for President.  Krause joins prominent Iowa Democratic veterans Al Flyr, John Feller, and Joe Hays, as well as Iraq War veteran and State Representative Ray Zirkelbach, in supporting Dodd’s campaign.

“While we do have an excellent field of candidates, I'm caucusing for Chris Dodd because I trust him more than any other candidate to lead the nation when the unexpected occurs and to deliver results for his fellow veterans,” said Krause.   

“As a 28-year veteran of the Army Reserves, I know we need a Commander-in-Chief who is ready to take on the job from Day One.  Chris Dodd is the only major Democratic candidate who has served in the military, and he’s spent the last 26 years on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.  I know that he will provide the leadership to restore America's security and good name around the world, as well as produce results on our challenges at home.”

Dodd praised Krause’s service on behalf of veterans. 

“Bob Krause is a leading voice for veterans’ issues in Iowa, and he has been a tireless advocate on behalf of veterans within the Democratic Party,” said Dodd.  “As a fellow veteran, I am honored and humbled to have his support.  As President, I will ensure that we never forget the debt we owe to those who have served our country, and I’m proud to have earned Bob’s trust and his endorsement.”

Dodd served in the U.S. Army Reserves and Army National Guard from 1969 to 1975.

In addition, Dodd has received the endorsements of prominent Democratic veteran John Feller. Feller served in World War II and the Korean War, now serves as Membership Chair for Des Moines VFW Post 9127, and was a State Co-Chair of Veterans for Kerry in 2004.

Edwards Campaign Announces Key Leaders And Advisors in February 5th States

EDWARDS CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCES KEY LEADERS AND ADVISORS IN FEBRUARY 5TH STATES

Building on momentum in Iowa and New Hampshire, Edwards expands base of support in February 5th states across the country, citing particular strength in traditionally “red” states

Chapel Hill, North Carolina – Today, the John Edwards for President campaign announced key leaders and advisors in nine states that will hold presidential primaries and caucuses on February 5th.  These current and former elected officials join the campaign’s team of state advisors in all 22 February 5th states, who are already working to help the campaign build on momentum coming out of the nation's first contests in Iowa and New Hampshire.

The announcement comes as the Edwards campaign highlighted the strength of its organization in February 5th states all across the country, including:

- State advisors in all 22 February 5th states
- Endorsements from seven labor unions that together represent more than 1.5 million members in February 5th states
- Endorsements from a majority of State House and Senate Democratic legislators in North Dakota and Oklahoma
- 706 One Corps chapters, the local service arm of the Edwards campaign, in February 5th states
- Statewide grassroots organizing calls held with advisors and supporters in all 22 February 5th states this month.

“There is no question John Edwards is surging in Iowa and New Hampshire,” said Edwards’ national campaign manager Congressman David Bonior. “And that momentum is only going to keep growing, as we head into Nevada, South Carolina and the February 5th states. With the help of the labor community and others, including the list of experienced leaders we are announcing today, the Edwards campaign has built a strong national organization with a wide base of support. We are well-positioned to capitalize on the momentum coming out of strong finishes in the four early primary states and turn it into victories for John Edwards in the February 5th states.”

“I am honored to join Senator Edwards’ team of advisors in February 5th states,” said former Georgia Congressman Ben “Cooter” Jones, who has campaigned for Edwards in both Iowa and New Hampshire. “Poll after poll shows John Edwards to be by far our strongest Democratic candidate in the general election. I’m not supporting John Edwards because of polls, but those same surveys show that John Edwards can win in the so-called ‘red states’ and that’s exciting to me. His strength at the top of the ticket will help other Democrats on the ballot in the South and in the Heartland. John Edwards transcends the ‘Blue State-Red State’ paradigm. He will make the Democratic Party a truly national party once again.”

In addition to adding to its list of key leaders and advisors, the Edwards campaign announced that it had held statewide grassroots organizing calls in all 22 February 5th states this month.

The Edwards campaign also has strong support from seven labor unions in February 5th states which have endorsed John Edwards and together represent more than 1.5 million members in those states. Edwards has earned the endorsement of: the United Steelworkers of America; the United Mine Workers of America; the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America; the Transport Workers Union; Service Employees International Union (SEIU) state councils in 12 states, including California, Minnesota, Idaho and Massachusetts; the Arizona Communications Workers of America; and the UNITE HERE Chicago and Midwest Joint Board, which represents members in Minnesota, Illinois and Missouri.

The key leaders and advisors in Minnesota

U.S. Rep. Jim Oberstar (MN)
MN House Majority Leader Tony Sertich
MN House Asst. Majority Leader Aaron Petersen
Former MN State Senator Ted Mondale

Romney For President Launches New Television Ad, "Everywhere"

ROMNEY FOR PRESIDENT LAUNCHES NEW TELEVISION AD, "EVERYWHERE"

Boston, MA – Today, Romney for President launched its newest television ad, "Everywhere."  The ad features Governor Romney talking with the American people about the challenges confronting our country and the need to change Washington.  With an exceptional record of turning around businesses and institutions, Governor Romney is the one candidate prepared to meet today's challenges.  Together, he believes we can grow the economy, stop illegal immigration, defend life and preserve our traditional values.  With his experience, vision and values, Governor Romney will make Washington work again and build a brighter future for America.

The ad will begin airing today as part of the campaign's rotation in Iowa.

Script For "Everywhere" (TV:30):

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY:  "Everywhere my family and I go we hear that America's challenges are simply too big for Washington politicians.

"I've spent my life tackling big problems – helping turn around business, the Olympics, and state government.

"Together we can grow our economy, stop illegal immigration, defend life and preserve the values that make America the hope of the earth.

"It's time to turn around Washington. 

"I'm Mitt Romney, and I approve this message."

Hillary Clinton Continues Her “Big Challenges, Real Solutions – Time To Pick A President” Tour In Iowa

Hillary Clinton Schedule: December 31, 2007 – January 1, 2008

Hillary Clinton continues her “Big Challenges, Real Solutions – Time To Pick A President” Tour in Iowa on Monday, December 31.

On Monday, Hillary attends “Pick A President” events in Keokuk and Fort Madison. In the afternoon, she will attend “New Year, New Beginnings Celebration” events in Muscatine and Waterloo, and Des Moines. The Des Moines event will also be hosted by President Clinton.

On Tuesday, January 1, Hillary attends “Pick A President” events in Ames, IA, Sioux City, IA, Council Bluffs, IA, and Iowa City, IA.

Dodd Campaign Announces Schedule For The "Caucus For Results Bus Tour"

DODD CAMPAIGN ANNOUNCES SCHEDULE FOR FINAL DAYS OF “CAUCUS FOR RESULTS” BUS TOUR

Presidential candidate Chris Dodd will continue his “Caucus for Results” bus tour all the way through Caucus Day.  The tour will continue taking Dodd throughout the state, bringing Iowa caucus-goers together around his message of proven leadership and a record of results for America’s families.

On New Year’s Eve, Dodd will visit Oelwein, Waverly, and Waterloo, before ringing in the New Year at a party in Dubuque.

On New Year’s Day, Dodd will campaign in Clinton, Davenport, Cedar Rapids, and Marshalltown.

On Wednesday, Dodd will be campaigning in Colo, Ames, Indianola, Ottumwa, Fairfield, and Burlington.

On Caucus Day, Dodd will make stops in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Des Moines. 

The Dodd Caucus Night Celebration will be held at the Temple for the Performing Arts in downtown Des Moines.

Mitt Romney Announces Support Of Iowa State Representative Betty De Boef

GOVERNOR MITT ROMNEY ANNOUNCES SUPPORT OF IOWA STATE REPRESENTATIVE BETTY DE BOEF

Boston, MA – Today, Governor Mitt Romney announced that Iowa State Representative Betty De Boef has endorsed his Presidential campaign. 

"Betty is a pro-life, pro-family champion in the Iowa House and her support will be crucial as we continue to gain support across Iowa," said Governor Romney.  "As Iowa's January 3 caucus quickly approaches, I look forward to working with her to share my positive, conservative vision for the country."

Representative De Boef joins State Representatives Richard Anderson, Dave Deyoe, Greg Forristall, Linda Miller, Steve Olson, Christopher Rants, Chuck Soderberg, Doug Struyk, David Tjepkes, Jodi Tymeson, Ralph Watts and Tami Wiencek; and State Senators Jim Hahn, David Johnson, Dave Mulder and Brad Zaun.

"Governor Romney is the candidate who shares my passion for pro-family issues, and will also be our best advocate for fiscal and defense conservatives," said Representative Betty De Boef. "He is a leader in the fight to secure our border, and we can trust him to turn off the magnets that encourage illegal immigration.  I look forward to working hard for his team, making sure that other pro-family voters know Governor Romney is the candidate to support on caucus night."